Sidescroller: ‘Resident Evil’ has yet another go-round

Video games and sequels go together like peanut butter and jelly or, um, candy corn and Oreos. Still, it takes a special franchise to weather the years and the ever-changing tastes of gamers. Two series just reached this wondrous milestone. In lieu of an anniversary party, read these reviews.

'Resident Evil 6'

Console: 360/PS3

Company: Capcom

Grade: 3/5

"Resident Evil" invented the idea that you could be scared by playing a video game. Since the original launched in 1996, this constantly evolving zombie thriller has terrified legions of gamers. In recent iterations, however, the scare factor has dropped in favor of gun-toting action. "Resident Evil 6" continues this tradition. To be sure, the days of slowly creeping toward the next thrill are gone.

This game is polished and a pretty good game -- but at the end of the day, doesn't feel like survival horror. There are still a ton of zombies though. At least there's that.

'Pokemon Black 2'/ 'Pokemon White 2'

Console: DS/3DS

Company: Nintendo

Grade: 4/5

Technically, there has been a boatload of games that task you to catch 'em all. These two, however, are generally considered to be the "sixth generation" of Pokemon. They feature new characters, some new locations and, most importantly, new Pokemon to capture and force to fight to the death. Ah, the magic of childhood.

There's a reason these games still sell like gangbusters. They are fantastic titles with an astounding amount of content. The general formula hasn't changed since the late-'90s but the gameplay still is addictive as all get-out. There's a huge world to explore and hundreds of critters to ensnare.